Featured Artist: Hello Maupoo

Meet Hello Maupoo! A Los Angeles designer and jewelry maker. Take a look at what she had to say to BBP:

BBP: When did you decide you first become interested in art? Did you know right away that you wanted to be an artist professionally?

I probably have known since childhood, but making a decision to become a full time artist took some time. Despite my love for art, I shied away from it. For instance, in college I didn’t major in fine arts because I thought it wasn’t serious or practical, though I always made a point of taking studio art class in order to make through the semester. Only years later have I recognized my denial, how I always came back to art. After undergraduate school I studied graphic design, and worked several years professionally until I was ready to go out on my own. So here I am.

BBP: How did the name “Hello Maupoo” come about?

The name of my shop, Hello Maupoo, comes from my cat, Mau, nicknamed Maupoo. I was never close to an animal — never understood or thought much about them — until I met Mau. Through her I’ve come to relate to and love animals. I say Mau represents them all and inspires my designs.

BBP: If you had to describe your designs in 5 words or less, what would you say?

Whimsical, sweet, cute, modern, and simple.

BBP: What do you find inspires you most?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly where I get my inspiration. I am visually oriented, and I do seek visually stimulating scenes, online and out there in the world. The internet hosts an explosion of great design and art sites that always inspire and excite me. “Out there” in the real world I enjoy nature, and urban landscapes like L.A. downtown too. Nature gives me that sense of freedom, and Downtown LA draws me in with its enclaves of vibrant street art, artsy shops, the best restaurants, and communities of artists. Like anybody I am tuned into my environment. My mind is, I think unconsciously, always absorbing and defining the world. When I am ready to work, all that comes out through my artistic expression.

BBP: Do you have kids? If so, tell us a bit about them!

I don’t have kids but I do have three furry animals (a cat and two dogs, one being a 10 week puppy) who keep me lighthearted and fun.

BBP: What would you say is the coolest thing about being a professional artist?

My shop gives me a place to be curious and imaginative. Whenever I create designs, I step into to the world of imagination, a place to be completely free and happy. My hope is to offer a similar experience to my visitors. It’s an online shop, which means you don’t actually get to touch anything, so I’m doing my best to build an environment that brings you in as close as possible. My hope is to offer a piece of happiness and inspiration for the people who enter.

BBP: What do like most about collaborating with BoomBoom Prints? What are your thoughts on the idea of customizable artwork?

I didn’t know about BoomBoom prints until recently. I am excited to collaborate and share my work. I’m also appreciative of the opportunity for exposure and connection with the Boomboom Prints community. Regarding the customization, I say, why not?

BBP: What did your room look like while you were growing up?

My room had holiday themes. I decorated the wall with images for Valentines, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, all holidays. I enjoyed making them, and to be surrounded by these images added to the festiveness of my space and world.

BBP: Do you find yourself designing in all sorts of locations? Where does the magic happen?

I am often working in my home studio. It’s a studio I share with my husband, cat, and two dogs. It’s a small space but I have all the things I need to start creating.

BBP: What would you tell a kid who said they wanted to be an artist?

Go for it!

BBP: Any other fun facts you’d like to add?

Yellow makes me happy. I am obsessed with yellow and drawn to anything yellow. Don’t show me anything with yellow because I will want it.